Spanish verbs change form according to grammatical features such as person, number, tense, and mood. This lesson introduces regular conjugation patterns, common types of irregular verbs, and the difference between simple and compound verb constructions.
A simple tense is formed with a single verb word. For example, amo means “I love,” and tememos means “we fear.” The verb ending helps indicate who performs the action and when it takes place.
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Regular Spanish verb groups
Regular infinitives end in -ar, -er, or -ir, and each group follows its own conjugation pattern.
Compound verb construction
A construction combining an auxiliary verb with a non-finite main verb form, such as estar plus a gerundio.
Pro-drop in Spanish
Subject pronouns are commonly omitted when verb forms identify the subject and no contrast or emphasis is needed.
Spanish participle agreement
With haber in a perfect construction, a past participle ends in -o; adjectival and passive participles agree with the relevant noun or subject.
Ser and estar: a rule of thumb
Ser generally describes permanent or relatively lasting characteristics; estar generally describes temporary states or conditions.
Quiz questions
What distinguishes a simple tense from a compound construction in Spanish?Answer: A simple tense uses one verb word; a compound construction combines an auxiliary with a non-finite verb form.
Which auxiliary combines with a gerundio to form a Spanish progressive construction?Answer: The appropriate form of estar.
Why are subject pronouns often omitted in Spanish?Answer: Verb forms often identify the subject, so a pronoun may be unnecessary without contrast or emphasis.
How does a past participle behave with haber in a Spanish perfect construction?Answer: It ends in -o and does not agree in gender and number with the subject.
Which statement gives the usual introductory distinction between ser and estar?Answer: Ser generally describes lasting characteristics, while estar generally describes temporary states or conditions.